In a special tribute, Google has dedicated a Doodle to honour the legacy of legendary dancer and choreographer Willi Ninja, who was instrumental in paving the way for Black LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance during the 1980s and 1990s. Willi’s influence can still be felt today through the enduring community he created, known as “The Iconic House of Ninja”.
Born William Roscoe Leakes in 1961, Willie Ninja grew up in Flushing, Queens, where his supportive mother nurtured his passion for dance. Despite facing financial constraints that prevented him from attending formal dance lessons, Willi’s determination and self-taught skills propelled him toward stardom. Inspired by Egyptian hieroglyphs and martial arts, he developed groundbreaking dance techniques that revolutionized the art form.
Willi Ninja’s influence extended far beyond the dance floor. His unique style of dance and movement caught the attention of renowned figures such as Madonna and Jean-Paul Gaultier, inspiring them in their creative endeavours. Moreover, Willi became one of the first advocates for HIV/AIDS prevention in the drag ball community, actively working to break the stigma associated with the disease.
The documentary film “Paris is Burning”, which prominently features Willi and the iconic House of Ninja, premiered in the United States on this day in 1990 at the NewFest New York LGBT film festival. The documentary shed light on New York City’s ball culture and brought Willi Ninja more into the limelight, cementing his status as the “Godfather of Voguing”.
Willi Ninja’s contribution to voguing and ballroom culture was instrumental in increasing the visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly within the ballroom scene. He used his talent and platform to challenge societal norms, promoting self-expression and individuality. Even after his untimely passing on September 2, 2006, Willi’s influence continues to inspire dancers, artists and performers around the world.
There are invaluable lessons to be learned from Willi Ninja’s remarkable journey. First, he teaches us the importance of embracing and celebrating our uniqueness. Willie’s extraordinary talent and personality broke down barriers and shattered stereotypes, stressing the importance of staying true to oneself. Second, his tireless pursuit of passion serves as a powerful reminder to chase our dreams despite the odds.
Willie Ninja also exemplified the importance of pushing boundaries and challenging norms. Her influence extended beyond the realm of dance, as she fearlessly challenged societal expectations around gender and sexuality. He demonstrated that self-expression and creativity knew no bounds, encouraging others to break free from societal constraints and forge their paths.
Furthermore, Willi Ninja fostered a sense of community and support among like-minded individuals. They nurture emerging talent and create spaces for self-expression, highlighting the importance of building communities that uplift and empower each other. Ultimately, his enduring legacy serves as a testament to the impact that can be made through art and self-expression. Willi’s contribution to voguing and ballroom culture continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the importance of making a positive mark on the world.
Willi Ninja’s life and work exemplify the transformative power of art, self-expression, and community. Her story serves as a poignant reminder to embrace our authenticity, pursue our passions wholeheartedly, and strive to make a meaningful impact in our chosen fields. Through his groundbreaking contributions, Willie Ninja blazed a trail for Black LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance and left an indelible mark on the world of dance and beyond.
Click Here: Google Doodle- Celebrating Willi Ninja
